Step Forward: Fight Stigma

The HIV landscape has changed dramatically since the 80s, yet we continue to hold onto outdated and incorrect perceptions. This needs to change. To make a start, scroll down to learn some updated facts about HIV.

People who live with HIV are the experts of their own experiences. Listen and wholeheartedly accept the stories they share.

It takes courage to speak up against negative and hurtful perceptions and comments, however, to create change, we must break the cycle of stigma. Giving correct information allows people to increase their awareness and break down ignorance.

There are many ways to support the HIV positive community; things such as sharing correct information and messages, donating to community organisations or charities, being visible (wear a red pin, put up posters, re-share posts on social media) and volunteering your time.

We as humans have created the shame and fear attached to HIV and we can change that narrative. 

Prior to the official World AIDS Day celebrations, we are hosting an evening sundowner on November 29 at Robertson Park to honour and pay our respect to those who have lost their lives to HIV/AIDS.

This is an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come since the start of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, remember those we have lost, and to look at just how far we have come.

Light refreshments will be provided, as well as some short speeches by members of the community and staff.

When: November 29, 6-7pm
Where: Robertson Park, AIDS memorial
RSVP: Please register your interest at the link here

Each year WAAC host our Breakfast for members of the community, people living with HIV, stakeholders and anyone who wishes to show their support, so please come and enjoy a fully catered breakfast, and listen to speeches given by Community Representative Angela Hellewell, Senator Dean Smith, Senator Louise Pratt, U.S. Consul General Siriana Nair, Hon. Peter Foster, and our new CEO Dr. Daniel Vujcich.

This is a free event, but please make sure to register below so we can cater to any dietary requirements.

When: December 1, 8-9am
Where: Forrest Place (near the cactus statue)
RSVP: Please register your interest at the link here.

This year, WAAC will be taking over Forrest Place to acknowledge World AIDS Day and the important work that has been happening in the HIV sector and highlight the continuous progress towards virtual elimination. This is an opportunity to learn more about your local organisations, show your support, and get involved.

When: December 1, 8:30-11:30am
Where: Forrest Place (near the cactus statue)

If you are an organisation or community group who are interested in hosting a stall, please contact [email protected] for more information.

This World AIDS Day, the Western Australia Museum will be displaying the historically and culturally significant AIDS memorial quilt, a piece commemorating the lives of those living with HIV/AIDS and honouring those that have been lost to the epidemic. This piece will be on display from the 1st-3rd of December and will be free to view.

We highly encourage anyone who is able to come and view this piece of our shared history.

When: December 1-3
Where: Western Australia Museum (Boola Bardip)

In Conversation’s latest instalment offers a thought-provoking exchange spanning generations, delving into the diverse life journeys of individuals living with HIV. In collaboration with WAAC, this event aligns with the exhibition of the WA AIDS Quilt and the Pride WA community showcase.

Join us for a compelling discussion shedding light on the distinctive narratives of those openly embracing their HIV-positive status and what this has meant historically and in today’s world.

In Conversation presents passionate and thought-provoking public dialogues that tackle big issues and difficult questions featuring diverse perspectives and experiences. Held monthly at the WA Museum Boola Bardip, in 2023 In Conversation will take different forms such as facilitated panel discussions, deep dive Q&As, performance lectures, screenings and more, covering a broad range of topics and ideas. For these monthly events, the Museum collaborates with a dynamic variety of presenting partners, co-curators and speakers, with additional special events featuring throughout the year. Join us as we explore big concepts of challenging and contended natures, led by some of WA’s most brilliant minds.

When: December 2, 2-4pm (2pm doors open, 2:30pm conversation starts)
Where: Western Australia Museum (Boola Bardip)
Tickets and Information: please see the link here.